Including migrant oncology patients in research: A multisite pilot randomised controlled trial testing consultation audio-recordings and question prompt lists
- Author(s)
- Hyatt, A; Lipson-Smith, R; Gough, K; Butow, P; Jefford, M; Hack, TF; Hale, S; Zucchi, E; White, S; Ozolins, U; Schofield, P;
- Journal Title
- Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications
- Publication Type
- Research article
- Abstract
- BACKGROUND: Oncology patients who are migrants or refugees face worse outcomes due to language and communication barriers impacting care. Interventions such as consultation audio-recordings and question prompt lists may prove beneficial in mediating communication challenges. However, designing robust research inclusive of patients who do not speak English is challenging. This study therefore aimed to: a) pilot test and assess the appropriateness of the proposed research design and methods for engaging migrant populations, and b) determine whether a multi-site RCT efficacy assessment of the communication intervention utilising these methods is feasible. METHODS: This study is a mixed-methods parallel-group, randomised controlled feasibility pilot trial. Feasibility outcomes comprised assessment of: i) screening and recruitment processes, ii) design and procedures, and iii) research time and costing. The communication intervention comprised audio-recordings of a key medical consultation with an interpreter, and question prompt lists and cancer information translated into Arabic, Greek, Traditional, and Simplified Chinese. RESULTS: Assessment of feasibility parameters revealed that despite barriers, methods utilised in this study supported the inclusion of migrant oncology patients in research. A future multi-site RCT efficacy assessment of the INFORM communication intervention using these methods is feasible if recommendations to strengthen screening and recruitment are adopted. Importantly, hiring of bilingual research assistants, and engagement with community and consumer advocates is essential. Early involvement of clinical and interpreting staff as key stakeholders is likewise recommended. CONCLUSION: Results from this feasibility RCT help us better understand and overcome the challenges and misconceptions about including migrant patients in clinical research.
- Keywords
- Cancer; Clinicial Trials; Communication; Consultation audio-recording; Consultation recording; Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD); Migrants; Question prompt lists
- Department(s)
- Health Services Research; Medical Oncology; Australian Cancer Survivorship Centre
- PubMed ID
- 35677588
- Publisher's Version
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conctc.2022.100932
- Open Access at Publisher's Site
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conctc.2022.100932- Terms of Use/Rights Notice
- Refer to copyright notice on published article.
Creation Date: 2024-12-13 04:26:06
Last Modified: 2024-12-13 04:27:13